Public Information Coordinator
About The Position
The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is seeking a dynamic, customer-focused communicator to join our team. In this role, you will serve as a primary point of contact for the public, stakeholders, and media partners, helping to keep Utah moving and informed. In this role, you will manage day-to-day inquiries regarding UDOT programs, construction projects, roadway conditions, policies, and services. This role bridges the gap between the department and the community, ensuring timely, accurate, and empathetic communication. Additionally, you will directly support UDOT’s Public Information Officers (PIOs) by assisting with media relations, drafting communication materials, and serving as a backup spokesperson for interviews or public engagement events.
Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
- Professional experience in a directly related field may substitute for the degree on a year-for-year basis (e.g., 4 years of relevant experience).
- Demonstrated experience in customer service, public relations, communications, digital media, or journalism.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills with a sharp eye for detail and accuracy.
- Ability to remain composed, professional, and empathetic when handling sensitive, high-pressure, or confrontational situations.
- Strong organizational skills to manage shifting priorities effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Proven ability to build positive relationships and communicate clearly with diverse audiences and stakeholders.
- A proactive, problem-solving attitude dedicated to serving the residents of Utah.
- Polished personal presentation and grooming suitable for public-facing and media-facing environments.
Nice To Haves
- Experience handling direct media inquiries or acting as an organizational spokesperson.
- Familiarity with translation/localization and digital accessibility standards (WCAG).
- Fluency in Spanish (spoken and written).
- Prior knowledge of transportation, government operations, or public sector communications.
Responsibilities
- Respond efficiently to public inquiries across multiple channels, including phone, email, and social media.
- Provide clear, accurate, and timely updates on UDOT projects, traffic impacts, construction, and road conditions.
- Document and route community concerns to the appropriate internal divisions or regional offices for resolution.
- Assist PIOs with media coordination, press inquiries, and interview scheduling; serve as a backup spokesperson for media interviews and public meetings when needed.
- Help draft and distribute press releases, public notices, talking points, and engaging social media content.
- Monitor public sentiment and emerging concerns to help identify communication trends that require proactive outreach.
- Support emergency communication and incident response efforts as required.
Benefits
- Exceptional Health Coverage: We offer some of the most competitive medical premiums in the industry, including comprehensive family plans with very low out-of-pocket costs and HSA options.
- Retirement Choice: Flexibility between a 10% employer-paid 401(k) (no match required) or a Pension/401(k) Hybrid plan.
- Generous Paid Time Off: 12 paid holidays per year plus 8 hours of combined leave (4 annual and 4 sick) accrued each pay period.
- Dental & Vision: Multiple high-quality plan options to fit your needs.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
